President Donald Trump released a statement on social media reacting to the news of Sen. Lindsey Graham’s death, calling him an ‘American patriot’ and ‘one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known.’ Graham, a Republican, served in the Senate starting in 2002 and was reelected for every term since then.

Background

Graham had a complex relationship with President Trump, initially sparring with him during his presidential run in 2016. However, after Trump’s election, Graham grew to become one of the president’s staunchest allies, supporting his initiatives and defending him during controversies. The two also golfed together.

Henry McMaster, the South Carolina governor, also issued a statement on Graham’s death, calling him a ‘fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America—and a loyal and steadfast friend.’ Under South Carolina state law, the governor will appoint a temporary replacement to fill the vacant Senate seat until the next general election in the state.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.